Apple has announced on Wednesday that its co-founder Steve Jobs is dead after a long public battle with cancer and other health problems.

Jobs died on Wednesday at the age of 56.

We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today, noted a statement by BusinessWire attributed to Apple's board of directors.

Steve's brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives. The world is immeasurably better because of Steve.

His greatest love was for his wife, Laurene, and his family. Our hearts go out to them and to all who were touched by his extraordinary gifts.

The Silicon Valley legend resigned as chief executive of Apple Inc. He co-founded Apple in a garage.

I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple's CEO, I would be the first to let you know, Jobs said in a news release. Unfortunately, that day has come.

Jobs was plagued with health problems since the mid-2000s and was treated for pancreatic cancer. He also had a liver transplant in 2009, when he took a leave of absence from the company. Hi s death came one day after Apple released its new iPhone 4S smartphone.

Jobs continued to work with Apple as chairman of the board, but he was replaced by Tim Cook who was serving with Apple for about 13 years.

Start the slideshow to see Jobs' health over the years.

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